Serving the community at home and beyond

CYPRESS, Calif. - Eleven The United States Army Reserves soldiers working in the personnel and administrations department of the 11th Military Police Brigade set off to make a difference in their local community. The soldiers served lunch to more than 50 residents of the Cypress Recreation and Community Services, Aug. 9. Soldiers continue to create strong ties with the veteran community and beyond.

“[Community service] helps soldiers to do things together as a group, which builds morale and important relationships,” said Spc. Joaquin Beltran, an administrative specialist from Whittier, Calif. ”I really felt appreciated, especially when the director had tears in her eyes as she introduced us.”

Soldiers entered the center dressed in their Army Combat Uniforms and served a meal of turkey, mixed vegetables, fruit and salad.

Beltran greeted the elderly and listened to their stories. He also mentioned the enthusiasm of the residents while they were visiting.

Many older veterans can relate to their younger military counterparts and can communicate like old friends.

“After introducing ourselves to the group we had an opportunity to shake hands and get to know many people,” Sgt. Eberarado Andrade, a medic in the 11th MP Bde. “It’s important to give back to the community and let them know we care about them just as much as they care for [our military].”

Andrade, an Oxnard, Calif. native who has served 13 years in the military, mentioned that he was grateful for the opportunity to talk with veterans from the Korean and Vietnam Wars.

“We are blessed to have a good community here, where they are supportive of the troops,” said Master Sgt. Alberto Cadiz, a native of Anaheim, Calif. “We give back and show that we are here to serve in our local community.”

Service to the community and the nation is the foundation of military service. Continuing their outreach to the community, last year the soldiers donated to The Grateful Heart Foundation. Beyond their responsibilities of maintaining personnel actions, they are dedicated to annual community outreach.